I did not want to do (English) literature because I felt that economics was good.

Rev. Duncan Forester, my professor of political science at MCC, encouraged me to apply for a scholarship at Edinburgh, his university.

• Edinburgh and Marxism

I got a motorcycle in the second year in college. A Jawa. Since I was the only child, my mother had to given in to all my demands. I sold my motorcycle to pay the fare when I went to Edinburgh. I had to sell certain things—one motorcycle, then some shares somebody had invested for me. I also took an interest-free loan of Rs.10,000 from a trust which I repaid when I came back.

In Edinburgh, I became a full-time student activist. I used to work hard, six hours in the library, three-four hours for lectures etc.

When I went to Edinburgh, my thesis was on Indian languages and national politics. I could read about India and Marxism — my whole understanding developed which helped me to decide that I must join the CPI(M).

In 1969, I came to India for my field work for three months. Then I contacted the party in Madras. I went to the party office and offered to join the party, leave my studies and be a full-time worker. Party leaders advised me to finish the degree and come back.

(In Edinburgh, the person who embedded Marxism in me was Victor Kiernan, the Marxist historian. I used to attend his lectures. I spent time discussing things with him.)

... contd.